Day-Tripping in Segovia

Having spent the vast majority of my time in Spain enjoying the delights of Salamanca and nearby Madrid, I finally branched out this weekend and took a day trip to Segovia.

A manageable two and a half hour bus ride away from Salamanca, Segovia is situated around 90km to the north of Madrid. It's a really small town and, despite an unfortunate spell of rain obscuring our views somewhat, also incredibly pretty. What's more, the web of little cobbled streets and picturesque buildings is complimented by the surrounding countryside, which, in full autumnal colours, was absolutely stunning.

Having arrived and got our bearings, we headed straight for a delicious breakfast at a very quaint bakery just off the Plaza Mayor - there is nothing quite like a Spanish hot chocolate and pastries to start the day!

After that, seeing the main sites didn't take us very long, particularly as spending time admiring the impressive architecture from the outside (which would have been brilliant to do in the sunshine with an ice cream) was quickly struck off the agenda due to the weather! Nonetheless, a peaceful walk around the Cathedral, followed by a tour through the luxurious rooms of the historic and Disney-like Alcázar and its adjoining museum were both very enjoyable. Segovia's third main feature, the Aqueduct was possibly the most remarkable of the signature sites, the enormous Roman arches having been constructed using thousands of stones and not a drop of mortar to hold them together.

The morning having flown by, we then chose one of Segovia's many restaurants for lunch, ensuring in the process that the local speciality - cochinillo, or roast suckling pig - was on the menu. Then, emerging from the restaurant to slightly more agreeable weather and with an hour or so on our hands, we strolled around the town and enjoyed a browsing the various craft shops that the city has to offer, many selling jewellery, accessories and intricately decorated Spanish ceramics.

Cosy and relaxing, Segovia is the perfect escape from the constant hustle and bustle you'll find in larger cities such as Madrid and even Salamanca - if you're visiting the region, a day or two in this charming city is a must.

For more details about what Segovia has to offer, take a look at this article.